Oilers favourite may play host to 2028 World Cup of Hockey

Though the host city has yet to be announced, Edmonton's Leon Draisaitl may have a chance to play in the games, and perhaps even in his home country.

According to The Hockey News Germany has two cities that could be contending to host the international competition, Berlin, with Uber Arena, and Cologne, with Lanxess Arena.

Which of the seven European cities listed in the THN article, and the undisclosed North American cities (in NHL arenas), has the better chance, will likely depend on their bid. The deadline for submission to host the tournament was July 18 for NA cities, and July 30 for European cities.

Following are the remaining European cities that could be hosting the 2028 World Cup of Hockey:

Prague, O2 Arena; Stockholm, Avicii Arena; Helsinki Arena; Tampere, Nokia Arena; and Zurich, Swiss Life Arena.

The IIHF has voiced its opposition to a major international, non-Olympic competition in Europe, but so far has not dissuaded the NHL from moving forward with its planning.

According to an NHL press release, the eight-team tournament will be split into two groups of four, with one group playing at a venue in North America and the other at an international venue - almost certainly in Europe.

In all probability, each venue would host six group-stage games and two quarterfinals, with the North American venue also hosting the two semifinals and the final.

It's great to see the return of international hockey involving NHL players, and hopefully it continues to grow from here.